Phu Tho Province Overview

Phu Tho Province, known as the "Gateway to the Northwest" and located close to the capital city of Hanoi, has today developed into an attractive multi-experience tourism hub. This sacred Land of Origins not only embodies rich historical and ancestral values but also boasts diverse natural beauty, from the characteristic midland landscapes such as Long Coc Tea Hills, the scenic waterways of Hoa Binh Lake, to the highland resort climate of Tam Dao. Considered a "green lung" with the cultural diversity of the Kinh, Muong, Thai, and Dao ethnic groups, Phu Tho has become an ideal destination for travelers seeking to explore culture and history while enjoying premium resorts, promising an unforgettable journey.

Location of province Phu Tho on Vietnam map

Notable destinations in Phu Tho

Long Coc Tea Hill 

Long Coc Tea Hills, located in Long Coc Commune, Tan Son District, Phu Tho Province, about 125 km from Hanoi, is famously known as the “Halong Bay of the Midland Region” and is one of the province’s most attractive destinations. The area stands out with its stunning, poetic scenery, featuring hundreds of inverted bowl-shaped tea hills stretching continuously over 677 hectares, accompanied by winding, meandering roads. As a new tourism spot, Long Coc draws visitors not only to admire the lush green beauty of the expansive tea hills but also to learn about high-quality tea varieties such as LDP1, LDP2, PH1, and PH8, as well as to taste local specialties like Shan Tuyet tea and Bat Tien tea.

Long Coc Tea Hill

Hoa Binh Lake

Hoa Binh Lake, located in the mountainous province of the same name, is a famous tourist destination just about 140 km from the capital city of Hanoi. It is the largest artificial reservoir in Vietnam and one of the largest in Southeast Asia, situated on the Da River with a length of over 230 km and an impressive capacity of 9.5 billion cubic meters, stretching across several districts of the province. Often referred to as the “Halong Bay on the mountains,” Hoa Binh Lake attracts visitors with its picturesque natural scenery: emerald-green waters surrounding more than 40 islands, appearing and disappearing amid misty clouds. This stunning landscape makes it an ideal spot for eco-tourism, activities such as kayaking, and exploring the local Muong culture.

Hoa Binh Lake

Tam Dao

Tam Dao Town is a famous tourist destination in Phu Tho, located about 80 km from Hanoi. Situated at an altitude of over 900 meters above sea level, Tam Dao enjoys a cool climate year-round. Its name, “Tam Dao,” comes from the three prominent peaks rising above the sea of clouds: Thach Ban, Thien Thi, and Phu Nghia, which can even be seen from Hanoi on sunny days. On January 25th, Tam Dao was officially recognized as a National Tourist Area.

Visitors can enjoy the experience of four seasons in a single day, no matter the time of year. Tam Dao was once a favorite retreat of the French during colonial times. Today, it features stunning mountainous landscapes and numerous newly built European-style structures, making it an ideal getaway for travelers looking to escape the city over the weekend.

Tam Dao

In addition to the prominent attractions mentioned above, visitors can also explore other destinations such as:

  • Ban Lac – Mai Chau: A peaceful cultural valley of the Thai ethnic people.
  • Thung Khe Pass: Also known as White Rock Pass, it is famous for its spectacular, snow-like scenery. This pass is a must-visit for travel enthusiasts looking to conquer scenic routes during their Hoa Binh journey.
  • Thung Nai: Boasting a unique location in the heart of the Da River Lake, Thung Nai is often referred to as the “Halong Bay on the mountains.” Its picturesque landscapes feature clear emerald waters reflecting the clouds and scattered limestone mountains, creating an enchanting natural scene.
  • Dai Lai Lake: A lakeside resort area with premium accommodations.
  • Kim Boi Mineral Springs: Known as the “precious gem of the Northwest mountains,” Kim Boi Mineral Springs features crystal-clear waters with a constant temperature of 36°C. It is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation in Hoa Binh.

Outstanding historical sites

Hung Temple Historical Relic Area

Hung Kings’ Temple, majestically situated on Nghia Linh Mountain, is a Special National Relic and is revered as a sacred symbol and the origin of the Vietnamese nation, dedicated to the worship of the Hung Kings. This famous temple complex in Phu Tho is not only a place of pilgrimage but also a hub of unique cultural values, allowing visitors to gain a deep understanding of the nation’s founding history. Especially during the Hung Kings’ Death Anniversary Festival (the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month), the site attracts large crowds from all over the country who come to offer incense and perform rituals, creating a solemn and meaningful atmosphere. Travel tips and experiences for exploring Hung Kings’ Temple will help visitors have the most complete and fulfilling journey.

Hung Temple

Tru Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery

Located about 85 km west of Hanoi, this site is often regarded as a serene retreat and an ideal place for relaxation for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. The monastery sits atop a mountain approximately 300 meters above sea level in Dai Dinh Town, Tam Dao. With its poetic natural scenery, majestic mountains, and a “fairyland-like” atmosphere, it is the perfect place for meditation and spiritual practice.

Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery

Thac Bo Temple

Ba Chua Thac Bo Temple, one of the most sacred temples in the Northwest region, is located across Da Bac and Cao Phong districts. This ancient temple was built following the “mountain-backed, river-facing” principle, with its back resting against the solid Hang Than Hill and its front facing the majestic Da River. As a result, Ba Chua Thac Bo Temple in Hoa Binh resembles a stunning watercolor painting, blending magnificent nature with mysterious spiritual beauty.

With a history spanning hundreds of years, the temple has undergone multiple restorations, yet it still preserves its unique architecture and profound spiritual and cultural values. Visitors to Ba Chua Thac Bo Temple will be captivated not only by the breathtaking natural scenery but also by the sacred, peaceful, and deeply historical atmosphere.

Thac Bo Temple

Besides the three relic sites worth visiting above, tourists who love to learn about history and people can visit check out 5 other famous historical places, including:

  • Hung Lo Communal House: An ancient communal house associated with the ceremonial palanquin processions and offerings to the Hung Kings, preserving many distinctive architectural and folk cultural values.
  • Vinh Nghiem Pagoda: An important ancient pagoda serving as a major Buddhist center, also housing numerous historical relics and architectural works of value.
  • Special National Relic Hang Con Moong: A significant prehistoric cave, serving as a key example of the cultural transition between the Old Stone Age and New Stone Age in Vietnam.
  • Mau Temple of Lang Thi Tieu: Dedicated to Mau Lang Thi Tieu, who assisted the 18th Hung King in fighting invaders, reflecting the worship of the Mother Goddess and the local people’s gratitude.
  • Chiang Victory Historical Site on Lo River: A site commemorating the heroic victory of Vietnamese soldiers and civilians during the resistance against French colonial forces in 1947, which helped firmly defend the Viet Bac base.

Best time to travel

 

  • Spring (January – March): Ideal for spiritual tourism and festivals. The weather is warm, with flowers and plants beginning to bloom. The highlight is the Hung Kings’ Temple Festival (Hung Kings’ Death Anniversary), held from the 1st to the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month (the main day is the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month, usually falling in April in the Gregorian calendar, sometimes late March).
  • Summer (May – August): Suitable for escaping the heat. This is the hot and humid season with frequent rains in Phu Tho. However, it is perfect for relaxation and enjoying cooler mountain areas such as Tam Dao (Vinh Phuc) or lakeside resorts near Hoa Binh Lake.
  • Autumn (September – November): The best season to explore nature and cloud hunting. The weather is dry, cool, and pleasant. This is an excellent time for trekking at Long Coc Tea Hills (especially in late autumn) and discovering the culture at Ban Lac.
  • Winter (December – January): Ideal for relaxation and health care activities. The weather is cold and damp, often with mist. Perfect for enjoying hot spring resorts, such as Thanh Thuy Mineral Springs.

Transportation information

Airplane (To Noi Bai Airport - HAN)

Since the Phu Tho, Hoa Binh, and Vinh Phuc areas do not have major commercial airports, travelers from Central and Southern Vietnam need to fly to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Hanoi.

  • HCMC route. Ho Chi Minh (SGN) - Noi Bai (HAN):

    • Flight time: About 2 hours.
    • Reference ticket price: From 1,000,000 - 1,500,000 VND/way (Economic, excluding taxes and fees, depending on time).

  • Route Da Nang (DAD) - Noi Bai (HAN):

    • Flight time: About 1 hour 20 minutes.
    • Reference ticket price: From 700,000 - 1,000,000 VND/way (General, excluding taxes and fees, depending on time).

  • From Noi Bai – To the Regions: Travelers can get to Phu Tho (approximately 50–80 km), Vinh Phuc (approximately 20–30 km), or Hoa Binh (approximately 80–100 km) by taxi, Grab, or interprovincial bus.

Railways

The Hanoi – Lao Cai railway line passes through Phu Tho Province, serving travelers at major stations such as Viet Tri or Phu Tho.

  • Route Hanoi - Viet Tri/Phu Tho Station:

    • Reference fare Reference:

      • Soft air-conditioned seats: From 69,000 - 150,000 VND/trip.
      • Bed compartment 4: From 170,000 - 310,000 VND/trip.
  • Ticket booking contact: Railway switchboard (usually 1900 6464) or train ticket agents.
  • Note: Hoa Binh and Vinh Phuc do not have main railway lines.

Passenger Car/Limousine

This is the most popular and convenient means of transportation between Hanoi and provinces in the region.

Route Hanoi - Viet Tri/Phu Tho (About 1.5 - 2 hours)

X.E Viet Nam

  • Departure point: Hanoi from 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., Viet Tri from 4:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
  • Price: From 160,000 VND/trip
  • Hotline: 1900.173 - 1900.1500

Nam Cuong Limousine

  • Departure point: Hanoi from 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., Viet Tri from 4:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
  • Price: From 130,000 - 170,000 VND/time
  • Hotline: 0210.3686.686 - 1900.400.028

Route Hanoi - Tam Dao/Vinh Yen (Vinh Phuc) (About 1.5 - 2 hours)

Nhat Nam Limousine (9 - 29 seats)

  • Departure point: Hanoi from 7:00 am - 4:00 pm, Tam Dao from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Price: From 130,000 - 170,000 VND/time
  • Hotline: 0359.123.456 - 0941.868.386

Tuan Anh Limousine

  • Departure point: Ha Internal from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, Viet Tri from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
  • Price: From 140,000 - 190,000 VND/turn
  • Hotline: 1900.99.66.38 - 1900.0161 - 1900.0193

Route Hanoi - Mai Chau (Hoa Binh) (About 3.5 - 4 hours)

Xuan Trang Limousine

  • Departure point: Hanoi from 6:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., Mai Chau from 8:30 a.m. - 16:30
  • Price: 220,000 VND/trip.
  • Hotline: 0981 559 551

Manh Kien (Mai Chau)

  • Price: From 220,000 - 250,000 VND/turn.
  • Hotline: 0247 300 6772

Internal Move (At local)

  • Taxi/Grab/Rented motorbike: Suitable for moving within the city and between nearby locations.
  • Motorbike rental: Very flexible to explore mountain passes (Mai Chau, Tam Dao, Long Coc).

  • Reference rental price:

    • Car: From 80,000 - 120,000 VND/day.
    • Scooter: From 130,000 - 180,000 VND/day.

Here are the phone numbers of some popular motorbike rental shops in main cities/tourist areas:

In City, Viet Tri, Phu Tho:

  • Truong Thao Service: 0979 884 812
  • Dai An Service: 0975 113 368
  • Sao Viet Service: 091 405 48 82
  • Thuy Hung Service: 0368 864 555 (or old number 0166 886 45 55)
  • Viet Tri Motorbike: 0985 032 266

In Mai Chau, Hoa Binh:

  • Lam Ha Service: 0963 039 127
  • General Lane Service: 0389 480 085
  • H. Thai's Travel: 0356 659 089
  • Nha San 24: 0367 218 635
  • Mai Chau travel support (Maichautourist): 094 179 6556 (Car search support).

Taxi

You should prioritize calling major taxi companies or the following switchboards to ensure service quality:

In City, Viet Tri, Phu Tho:

  • Mai Linh Taxi: 0210 3 971 888 (Or nationwide switchboard 1055)
  • Thinh Hung Taxi: 0210 3 59 59 59
  • Nam Cuong Taxi: 0210 3 68 68 68
  • Blue Taxi SM: 1900 2088

In City, Vinh Yen, Vinh Phuc:

  • Mai Linh Taxi: 0211 6 26 26 26 (Or nationwide switchboard 1055)
  • Thinh Hung Taxi: 0211 3 59 59 59
  • Thien Duc Taxi: 0211 3 56 56 56
  • Blue Taxi SM: 1900 2088

In City, Hoa Binh:

  • Mai Linh Taxi: 0218 3 82 82 82 (Or nationwide switchboard 1055)
  • Phoenix Taxi: 0218 3 93 93 93
  • Ha Tam Taxi: 0218 3 888 222
  • Blue Taxi SM: 1900 2088

  • Cable car (Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery - Vinh Phuc):

    • Round-trip ticket price:

      • Adults: About 240,000 - 260,000 VND/ticket.
      • Children (1m-1m3): About 160,000 - 180,000 VND/ticket.

  • (There is a tram service from the entrance to the cable car station)

Accommodation information

Luxury (4-5 star luxury hotel)

Flamingo Dai Lai Resort 

Flamingo Dai Lai Resort – Ranked among the Top 10 Most Beautiful Resorts in the World. Proudly recognized with over 60 prestigious domestic and international awards, this resort is famous for its pristine natural greenery and diverse resort ecosystem. Its unique “green architecture” serves as a perfect thread connecting people with nature.

  • Address: Dai Quang Village, Xuan Hoa Ward, Province Phu Tho: A classy 5-star resort, possessing a prime location along Dai Lai Lake.
  • Price: From 1,615,394 VND/room/night
  • Hotline: (+84) 211.626.6666

Flamingo Dai Lai Resort 

Muong Thanh Luxury Phu Tho 

 

Muong Thanh Luxury Phu Tho Hotel is located on Hung Vuong Boulevard in the heart of the vibrant Viet Tri City. Built to 5-star standards with luxurious, modern architecture, it offers a wide range of services and amenities to meet every guest’s needs. Its prime location makes it convenient to explore famous scenic spots, lush green tea hills, and vast grasslands. Muong Thanh Luxury Phu Tho is truly an ideal choice for travelers seeking rest and enjoying wonderful moments of relaxation with family, friends, and loved ones.

 

  • Address: Lot CC17, Quang Nam Hung Vuong school, Phu Tho
  • Price: From 793,624 VND/room/night
  • Hotline: 0210.3616.666

Muong Thanh Luxury Phu Tho 

 

Several other 4-5 star luxury hotels are also popular and highly rated by travelers:

  • Tru by Hilton Viet Tri City Centre (from 936,000 VND/night): Thanh Mieu Ward, Phu Tho Province
  • Serena Resort Kim Boi (from 2,421,000 VND/night): Nat Son Commune, Phu Tho Province
  • Crowne Plaza Vinh Yen City Centre by IHG (from 2,060,000 VND/night): 396 Me Linh Street, Vinh Phuc Ward, Phu Tho Province
  • Tam Dao Belvedere Resort (from 1,780,000 VND/night): Tam Dao Commune, Phu Tho Province (famous for its infinity pool overlooking the mountains and forests)

Resort (Resort, Villa)

Vuon Vua Resort & Villas 

 

King’s Garden Resort & Villas, an eco-resort, is set on an 86-hectare estate in Vuon Vua, Bach Thuy Lotus Lake, bordering Hanoi along the Da River, with Ba Vi Mountain at its rear. This is a spiritual land closely associated with many historical landmarks of the Hung Kings.

  • Address: Dong Trung, Thanh Thuy, Phu Tho
  • Price: 2,781,564VND/room/night
  • Hotline: 1900.066896

King's Garden

Mai Chau Hideaway Lake Resort 

 

Mai Chau Hideaway Lake Resort – One of the most beautiful resorts in the Northwest, is known as an eco-resort situated on a charming peninsula beside Hoa Binh Lake, surrounded by the spectacular four-season scenery of the Northwest mountains and forests. Every corner of the resort offers panoramic views of the lake nestled against the mountain slopes. Just listening to the gentle breeze, breathing in the fragrant scents of mountain herbs, and watching the small ripples on the lake’s surface will allow guests to relax and feel deeply connected with nature.

  • Address: Suoi Lon Hamlet, Mai Chau, Phu Tho
  • Price: 1,418,979VND/room/night
  • Hotline: 0963.406.366

Mai Chau Hideaway Lake Resort 

Experience (2-3 star hotel, Homestay)

Venus Tam Dao Hotel 

 

Perched atop a mountain constantly shrouded in mist, Venus Tam Dao Hotel proudly stands as the first 4-star hotel in Tam Dao. Built in European architectural style, it features 8 types of comfortable and luxurious rooms. In addition, Venus Hotel offers a full range of services including: a restaurant, conference facilities, a year-round swimming pool, spa & massage, a gym, and a recreational complex. Venus Tam Dao promises a unique and memorable “stay above the clouds” experience for all visitors to the misty town.

  • Address: Tam Dao Commune, Phu Tho
  • Price: From 1,675,165 VND/room/night
  • Hotline: 0813.583.838

Venus Tam Dao Hotel

Mai Chau Green Ecohouse

 

Mai Chau Green Ecohouse is well-known among many travelers, located in the central area of Mai Chau town. This homestay is designed in a modern style while maintaining an open, nature-friendly atmosphere.

Guests can relax in beautifully and thoughtfully designed rooms, offering an attractive retreat for anyone visiting. If you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, Mai Chau Green Ecohouse is an ideal stop to begin your journey exploring the beautiful landscapes of Hoa Binh.

  • Address: 185 Ban Lac 1, Mai Chau, Phu Tho
  • Reference price from: 500,000 VND/room/night

Mai Chau Green Ecohouse

Mai Chau Dream Homestay

Mai Chau Dream Homestay is one of the most attractive homestays in Ban Lac, showcasing the traditional stilt house architecture of the local people. The harmonious blend of modern and traditional elements makes the place more captivating than ever. Each room features a spacious balcony, and the garden is vibrant with colorful flowers, creating a wonderful atmosphere. The communal houses are also designed in airy stilt-house style that welcomes sunlight, allowing guests to enjoy tea and take in the scenic views right from their rooms.

  • Address: 40 Ban Lac, Mai Chau, Phu Tho
  • Price from: 250,000 VND/room/night
  • Phone number: 0917.507.697

Mai Chau Dream Homestay

In addition to the Homestay and Hotel options mentioned above, visitors can also refer to the following options:

  • Mai Chau Valley View Hotel (price from 600,000 - 900,000 VND): Lac Village, Mai Ha Commune, Mai Chau, Phu Tho
  • Mai Chau Homestay Dung Tu (price from 100,000 – 200,000 VND/person - Community Sleeping): Lac Village, Mai Ha Commune, Mai Chau, Phu Tho
  • Song Thao Hotel (price from 400,000 – 600,000 VND - Standard room): Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Phu Tho Ward, Phu Tho Province
  • Up In The Air Homestay (price from 600,000 – 1,200,000 VND): Tam Dao Commune, Phu Tho Province
  • A-Homestay Tam Dao (price from 500,000 – 900,000 VND): Tam Dao Commune, Phu Tho Province

Local Festival Cuisine and Culture

To make your trip more convenient, you can plan ahead for meals and explore a variety of traditional local dishes. Here is a list of some recommended restaurants and eateries for your reference:

High-class restaurants

King Garden Bamboo Source Restaurant

Tre Nguon Vuon Vua Restaurant is part of Tre Nguon Resort, located in Area 1, Bao Yen, Thanh Thuy, Phu Tho. The restaurant specializes in authentic countryside flavors, such as clay-pot braised fish, steamed free-range pork with banana leaves, and stir-fried wild vegetables with garlic. With a spacious area accommodating over 300 guests, the restaurant is suitable for hosting a variety of events and banquets.

  • Address: Area 1, Bao Yen, Thanh Thuy, Phu Tho.
  • Hotline: 0962 249 338.

King Garden Bamboo Source Restaurant

Tam Dao Panorama Restaurant

Panorama Tam Dao Restaurant is part of Panorama Hostel Resort, featuring rooms with views of the castle and valley. The restaurant is fully equipped with hot pot kitchens, outdoor BBQ grills, a bar, and services such as karaoke and an outdoor swimming pool. It is ideal for groups of friends or families to host parties or events. Guests can enjoy a variety of European and Asian cuisine while taking in panoramic views of the misty town.

  • Address: Tam Dao Commune, Phu Tho Province
  • Hotline: 035.311.5898

Panorama Tam Dao Restaurant

Local cuisine

  • Thanh Son Sour Pork – 11 Ngo Gia Tu, Vinh Phuc Ward, Phu Tho Province: A famous specialty of the Muong people, made from thinly sliced pork (usually half-grown pig), marinated with roasted rice powder, and naturally fermented. The pork has a slightly sour, fragrant, and rich flavor, usually served with fig leaves, dendrobium leaves, and chili sauce. Offered by Thit Chua Truong Foods.

  • Phu Tho “Ban Tai” Cake – 12 Nguyen Khuyen, Au Co, Phu Tho: This specialty captivates diners at first sight with its translucent, soft, and smooth rice flour crust, made from the finest rice. The cake is filled with pork and wood ear mushrooms, wrapped in dong leaves, and boiled, shaped like an ear. With each bite, you can enjoy the gentle aroma of fresh rice combined with the rich, savory pork filling, evenly infused into every piece of the cake without being greasy.

Thanh Son Sour Meat

  • Grilled Pa Pinh Top Fish – Tuan Gu Restaurant, Moc Chau Ward: The grilled Pa Pinh Top fish features an eye-catching color, crispy skin, and tender, flavorful flesh infused with the distinctive aromas of dổi seeds and mach khen. Served with the traditional cham cheo sauce of the Northwest mountains, it offers a unique and irresistibly delicious taste.

Grilled Fish Pa Pinh Top

  • Boiled Roasted Muong Pork – Dung Hang Restaurant, 59 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoa Binh Ward, Phu Tho Province: A specialty of the northern mountainous region, especially Mai Chau and Hoa Binh, made from fresh free-range pork, lightly roasted, then boiled. This dish is typically served with salt mixed with dổi seeds, fermented rice, or sweet and sour chili sauce to enhance its rich flavor.

  • Tam Dao Su Su Shoots – Gio Tam Dao Restaurant, Area 1, Tam Dao Commune, Phu Tho Province: (Available at almost all restaurants in Tam Dao) A famous specialty of the Vinh Phuc mountains, recognized for its long, tender, vibrant green shoots with a sweet, crisp flavor. Thanks to the cool, humid climate, su su plants grow well with minimal pests and are mainly cultivated using organic fertilizers, giving them distinctive taste and high nutritional value. Su su shoots can be prepared in many ways, such as boiled with garlic fish sauce, stir-fried with beef or chicken offal, or used in soups.

  • Hon Cake – Vinh Tuong Market, Vinh Tuong Commune: (Typically sold at snack and local specialty stalls in the market) This cake is made from glutinous rice flour, filled with pork and spices, shaped into small round balls, and then boiled or steamed. The cake has a chewy texture with a rich, flavorful filling.

Cuisine discovery experience

  • Eating and drinking at Ban Lac: Enjoy bamboo-tube rice, hill chicken, muong pork and wine right at a traditional stilt house.

Simple rice tray in Ban Lac region

  • Tam Dao Night Market: Explore and enjoy the famous Tam Dao Chayote, grilled dishes and other local specialties.

Cultural Experience

For tourists who love to discover more about the region's human culture, visit during festivals:

  • Hung Kings’ Death Anniversary Festival: This is the most sacred event, where millions of Vietnamese come together to honor the founding contributions of the Hung Kings and embody the principle of “Remembering the Source While Drinking Water.” On the day of the festival, thousands of people from all regions of the country flock to Hung Kings’ Temple to participate in activities commemorating and paying tribute to the Hung Kings. The festival holds profound significance for the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people, organized to honor the efforts of the Hung Kings in founding and protecting the nation. Visitors can immerse themselves in a solemn yet vibrant atmosphere that lasts for weeks. You will witness firsthand the ceremonial palanquins adorned with gold and red lacquer, colorful flags and banners, along with the grand rituals at the Upper Temple (Den Thuong). Attending the Hung Kings’ Festival is not just a trip—it is an opportunity to connect deeply with the National Intangible Cultural Heritage and fully experience the spirit of unity and national pride!

Hung King's Anniversary Festival

Besides the Hung Kings’ Death Anniversary, Phu Tho also invites visitors to experience Hat Xoan – an Intangible Cultural Heritage recognized by UNESCO. You can visit ancient villages to listen to these traditional ceremonial folk songs.

At the same time, don’t miss the chance to explore the vibrant culture of the Muong ethnic group, especially in areas such as Thanh Son, where you can enjoy lively gong performances, Sap dances in Mai Chau, or visit Muong villages in Hoa Binh. You can also savor rustic traditional dishes of the ethnic minorities, making your journey to the Land of Origins even richer, more colorful, and truly memorable.

Amusement area

If you are an active person who loves bustling entertainment spaces, this area has no shortage of suitable destinations. Such as:

  • Thanh Thuy Hot Spring Tourist Area: Hot mineral bath, fun at the water park.

Thanh Thuy hot spring tourist area

If you are looking for more lively entertainment beyond relaxing at Thanh Thuy Hot Springs, Phu Tho offers many other attractive options. In Viet Tri City, you can visit Van Lang Park, a modern lakeside entertainment complex ideal for families and young people. Additionally, experiencing Flamingo Beach Club (at Flamingo Dai Lai or a possible branch/area in Phu Tho) provides water sports, an artificial beach club, and a golf course, allowing you to enjoy luxurious and dynamic moments of leisure.

Suggested tours

Continuing with the travel guide, here are some suggested highlighted tours in the area:

Experience tourhiem

Ancestral Journey Tour - Explore Long Coc Tea Hill (2D1N)

  • Itinerary: Hung Temple - Xoan Singing - Long Coc Tea Hill.
  • Transportation: Car.
  • Organizing unit: Hanoitourist, Phu Tho travel companies.

Tour Mai Chau - Lac Yen Binh Village (2D1N)

  • Itinerary: Lac village - Cycling to visit the village - Overnight at home floor.
  • Method of transportation: Car.
  • Organizer: Vietravel, PYS Travel.

Adventure tour

Xuan Son National Park Trekking Tour - Cave Exploration (3D2N)

  • Itinerary: Conquer Xuan Son National Park, explore the pristine cave system.
  • Transportation: Car combined with travel set.
  • Organizing unit: Travel companies specializing in Trekking.

Hoa Binh Lake Kayaking & Camping Tour (2D1N)

  • Itinerary: Kayak exploration on the lake and overnight camping on the island.
  • Transportation: Car + boat.
  • Organizer: Kayaking clubs in Hoa Binh.

Family tour

Tam Dao Relaxation Tour (2D1D)

  • Itinerary: Stay at Resort/Villa, explore Stone Church, Silver Waterfall, Tay Thien Zen Monastery.
  • Transportation: 16-seat car.
  • Organizer: All travel agencies.

Thanh Thuy Hot Springs & King's Garden Tour (2 days 1 day)

  • Itinerary: Enjoy hot spring bathing, entertainment, and relaxation at the resort.
  • Transportation: 16-seat van.
  • Organizer: Nearby travel agencies.

Ecotourism

Tour to Explore Hoa Binh Lake - Hydropower and Coconut Island (2 days 1 night)

  • Itinerary: Take a boat to visit Thac Bo Temple, visit Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant, agricultural eco-tourism.
  • Transportation: 16-seat car + boat.
  • Organizer: Eco Tour, travel agencies in Hoa Binh.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Phu Tho has many delicious dishes and beautiful souvenirs that people can choose to buy as gifts. For example:

Thanh Son sour meat

 

  • Thanh Son Sour Pork is Phu Tho’s top specialty. It is made from fresh pork mixed with roasted rice powder and naturally fermented in bamboo tubes or guava leaf containers, resulting in a slightly sour, rich, and savory flavor that is easy to carry.
  • Where to buy: From reputable and branded production facilities in Thanh Son Commune. You can also find this product at specialty stalls in the Hung Kings’ Temple Historical Site area or at major specialty stores in Viet Tri City.

 

Doan Hung Grapefruit

 

  • Doan Hung Pomelo is famous for its thin skin, juicy, crisp segments, and refreshing sweet flavor, making it a popular healthy gift.
  • Where to buy: Directly from reputable orchards or roadside stalls along National Highway 2 in Doan Hung Commune. The best time to purchase is during the harvest season, usually from September to November (lunar calendar).

 

Hung Lo Rice Noodles

 

  • Hung Lo Rice Noodles are a traditional product, with firm, tasty strands that do not break when cooked, making them ideal for soups or stir-fried dishes.
  • Where to buy: At rice noodle production workshops in Hung Lo Village, Viet Tri City. Purchasing directly from the craft village ensures the quality and freshness of the product.

Handmade Souvenirs

In addition to food, you can choose exquisite handicraft products of the ancestral land.

  • Recommended purchases: Lacquer paintings from Tu Xa or bamboo and rattan woven products can be found at souvenir shops near the Hung Kings’ Temple area or at local fairs.

Notes when traveling

During the journey to experience this area, people need to note some of the following experiences:

  • Festivals: If you go on the occasion of Hung King's death anniversary, you need to book rooms and vehicles early due to the large number of visitors.
  • Mountain roads: Be careful when driving in Tam Dao and steep mountain passes in Hoa Binh.
  • Culture: Respect the customs and practices of ethnic minorities when visiting villages

Support information and other information

 

Throughout your journey, if you encounter any issues related to transportation, directions, or dining, you can ask local residents directly or contact the relevant authorities with the following information:

  • Emergency police: 113
  • Fire: 114
  • Ambulance: 115
  • Phu Tho Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism: Look up contact information in the city. Viet Tri
  • Visitor Support Center: Contact local provincial Tourism Centers for specific support

Phu Tho is not just a trip, but a journey towards the roots. Hopefully, after leaving the Ancestral Land, you will bring with you not only delicious gifts but also deep pride and gratitude for the Vietnamese people's tradition of "Drinking water, remember its source".